Apple ditches iPhone 3GS

Apple has taken the decision to axe the iPhone 3GS days before the firm is expected to reveal the iPhone 5.

Apple has taken the decision to axe the iPhone 3GS days before the firm is expected to reveal the iPhone 5.

The iPhone 3GS was launched in 2009 but Apple is finally retiring the smartphone, according to IT Pro. Supply chain sources have said that Apple has decided to cease production of the 8GB iPhone 3GS.

The source said: "The 3GS does not have core hardware features such as a front-facing camera, so it will not be able to allow users to make video calls over 3G - a feature Apple is pushing with iOS 6,"

Despite the launch of the iPhone 4 and iPhone 4S, the 3GS has continued to sell well with Apple shifting over one million units per quarter, according to IT Pro.

"Once retailers and operators have burnt through their stock of the 3GS, they will not be replenished by Apple." added the source.

Apple doesn't comment on rumour or speculation so the source may have received false information. One thing is for sure and that is that all eyes are on Apple for its next generation iPhone launch next week.